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Suresh Raina has been the most consistent campaigner in the IPL since its inception. The 2018 edition too turned out to be a successful one for him.
Not only did CSK win the title, he achieved a personal milestone by becoming the highest run-getter in IPL, amassing 4,985 career runs in the tournament’s history.
Raina spoke on what makes CSK tick, his IPL journey and MS Dhoni’s captaincy
A third IPL title for CSK, which was disbanded for two years. Your thoughts…
We played just one game in Chennai as our home games were shifted to Pune. Still, we were cheered by our fans at all the venues and received such warm reception in Chennai after the win.
You led Gujarat Lions for two seasons. How emotional was it to quit the team and don the yellow jersey again?
It was an honour to lead Gujarat. Similarly, playing for CSK and winning two titles before had given me special memories.READ |CSK had been close to my heart and I’m glad we won another IPL title in the yellow jersey. Playing for CSK was like coming back ‘home’.
How was it playing under MS Dhoni’s captaincy again in IPL?
Mahi has been an extraordinary ambassador of the game. His leadership skills have been the highlight. He believes in youngsters, keeps calm in pressure situations and leads by example.His contribution to CSK has been immense. I think the domestic cricketers doing well for us when it mattered was the key for CSK.
How would you describe your IPL journey and being the highest run-getter of all time?
It’s mind-boggling to have played eleven seasons of IPL and still having the hunger to do more. Thrice I have been part title-winning teams.I have learnt a lot during these years. The standard of cricket has been top-class and very competitive. I have enjoyed playing in IPL and wish to score more runs in the coming editions.Moreover, the fans have made the experience all the more special.
